A former gymnastics coach in Mandeville, Louisiana, is facing multiple charges after allegedly sending inappropriate texts to a minor. Orry Mejia, 42, was arrested on May 1, 2026, and later bonded out of jail after being charged with two counts of felony s**ual battery, one count of misdemeanor s**ual battery, and two counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile.
Details of the Incident
According to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began when a parent discovered what she believed to be inappropriate text messages between her daughter and Mejia on the daughter’s phone.
The incident, which occurred in 2024, was reported to authorities in 2025. However, at that time, detectives lacked sufficient probable cause to make an arrest.
Recently, new information disclosed by the victim led to a warrant being issued for Mejia’s arrest. The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Mejia was arrested on May 1, and he was booked on charges related to s**ual and indecent behavior with a juvenile.
Mejia’s Employment History
Mejia worked as a gymnastics coach at North Shore Gymnastics from 2010 until August 2024. The gym’s owner confirmed to WWL Louisiana that Mejia was fired after a parent brought concerns to her attention regarding inappropriate communication between him and a minor. Mejia’s employment was terminated as soon as the allegations were raised.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Mejia is facing serious charges, including:
- Two counts of felony s**ual battery
- One count of misdemeanor s**ual battery
- Two counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile
He was released on a $75,000 bond shortly after his arrest. The investigation into the case is ongoing.
